The UAE has stated that rebuilding trust with Iran will take a very long time following recent regional tensions. The remarks were made by UAE presidential advisor Anwar Gargash during a conference in France.
Speaking at the World Policy Conference in Chantilly, north of Paris, Gargash said relations between the UAE and Iran have suffered serious damage. He stressed that trust cannot be restored quickly after large-scale military escalation.
He said it is not realistic to expect normal relations after such intense conflict. According to him, rebuilding trust “will take ages and ages.”
Gargash explained that the UAE and other Gulf states were directly affected during the regional conflict. He pointed out that many strikes targeted civilian areas and key infrastructure.
He added that around 89 percent of the attacks reportedly hit civilians, energy facilities, and critical infrastructure. This has increased concern across the region.
The advisor said Iran’s actions sent a strong political message to Gulf countries. He claimed Tehran signaled that the region was not a priority in its strategic thinking.
According to him, this perception is likely to last for a long time. He warned that Iran will continue to be viewed as a strategic threat by the UAE and other Gulf nations.
The comments come after Israeli and US strikes in late February triggered wider regional conflict. Iran responded by targeting US allies in the Gulf, which further escalated tensions.
A ceasefire was agreed earlier this month. However, diplomatic progress has slowed in recent days. Peace talks in Pakistan have also faced delays.
Since the ceasefire, attention has shifted toward the Strait of Hormuz. This waterway is critical for global oil and gas transport.
Iran has reportedly restricted access to the Strait in response to the conflict. The United States has also taken steps affecting Iranian ports.
These developments have raised concerns about energy security and global trade routes. The UAE continues to monitor the situation closely.
Gargash also noted that Israel’s influence in the Gulf may increase due to Iran’s regional approach. He said the balance of power in the Middle East is changing.
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Overall, the UAE believes that long-term diplomatic challenges remain. Restoring trust and stability in the region will require sustained efforts and time.
